Kathy Gannon

Author “I is for Infidel” , Former Associated Press News Director for Afghanistan and Pakistan.

[Raja Muzaffar @Rajammuzaffar]

🔴 PART 2/3 — FROM AFGHANISTAN TO KASHMIR: THE STRUGGLE FOR TRUTH CONTINUES

As we honor Anja Niedringhaus and Kathy Gannon, we must also remember what journalists continue to face in Pakistan, India, and particularly across the divided State of Jammu and Kashmir.

Threats, intimidation, censorship, legal pressures, communication blackouts, and restrictions on independent reporting raise serious concerns about press freedom.

In Kashmir, where political conflict has affected generations, restrictions on information can leave ordinary people without a voice and the outside world without an accurate understanding of their suffering.

Whether in Srinagar, Muzaffarabad, Islamabad, New Delhi, Kabul, or anywhere else, journalists must be free to investigate, question authority, document human suffering, and report independently without fear of imprisonment, violence, or retaliation.

When journalists are silenced, society loses its witnesses, democracy loses accountability, and humanity loses access to the truth.

This is not about condemning one country or defending another.

It is about applying the same principles of freedom of expression, human dignity, international law, and accountability everywhere.

I believe in freedom for all, hatred toward none. That principle includes freedom of the press, even when journalists report truths that governments or powerful interests would rather not hear.

The protection of journalists should never depend on national boundaries, political loyalties, or ideological differences.

Freedom of the press is not a privilege granted by governments. It is a fundamental pillar of democracy and a safeguard of human dignity.

— Raja Muzaffar
@kathygannon
@anuradha_bhasin
@AljazeraUrdu1
@AJEnglish

#Kashmir #Pakistan #India #Afghanistan #PressFreedom #HumanRights #FreedomOfExpression

[Lisa Van Dusen @Lisa_VanDusen]

Our @policy_mag series 'On Being Canadian' 🇨🇦 https://t.co/LiobIQjR32
With many thanks to all the writers who've so generously shared their stories:
@goldyhyder
@SenatorWanda
@Thomas_dAquino
Baltej Singh Dhillon
@HowardFremeth
@jdmstewart1
Gina Cody
@DonaldColinRob1
@FlavioVolpe1
Deep Saini
@kathygannon
@danielbeland
Jeremy Kinsman
@SusanBonner
@SenBoehm
@robinvsears
Graham Fraser
@awilsonsmith
@ProsaicPKent
@GuyLepage14
Whit Fraser
@anilwasif
@StackhouseJohn
@DerekNighbor
@ElizabethMay
@ChrisLaBossiere
@Lisa_VanDusen

#cdnpoli #Canada 🇨🇦

[Raja Muzaffar @Rajammuzaffar]

KASHMIR AT THE CROSSROADS OF GLOBAL POWER POLITICS

US–India Relations, Russia’s Allegations, Washington’s Response, and the Future of Kashmir

As geopolitical alignments evolve and strategic relations between Washington and New Delhi deepen, an important question deserves renewed international attention:

Where do the people of Jammu and Kashmir stand in the calculations of the world’s major powers?

In my latest video analysis, I examine Russia’s allegations concerning the United States and Britain, Washington’s response, and the broader implications of competing geopolitical interests for the unresolved Kashmir question.

The discussion raises several questions relevant to the international diplomatic community:

How might shifting geopolitical relationships affect international engagement with Kashmir?
Can strategic partnerships and security interests coexist with meaningful attention to human rights, peace, and the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination?
What role can the United Nations and international diplomacy play in encouraging dialogue and a peaceful political process?
Most importantly, how can the people of Jammu and Kashmir, across all regions, religions, and communities, develop an inclusive and representative platform through which their collective aspirations can be heard?

The future of Jammu and Kashmir should not be discussed solely through the strategic interests of India, Pakistan, or the world’s major powers. The people whose lives and future are at stake must also have a meaningful voice.

This is an invitation to thoughtful dialogue, not confrontation.

I welcome observations and constructive engagement from members of the diplomatic community, scholars, journalists, policymakers, and friends of peace and justice worldwide.

Raja Muzaffar

Chair, Peace Committee on Kashmir
Dallas Peace and Justice Center

Speaking in my individual capacity.

@USDOSDOT_Urdu
@kathygannon
@voaurdu
@BBCUrdu

🎥 Watch the video:
https://t.co/9O7PjTm7JL

[Samantha Leaning @samanthaleaning]

MISSING, NOT FORGOTTEN - 18th October 2026 - Day 341

Families have a right to know what happened to their loved ones.

Article 24 of the UN Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance recognises the right of victims to know the truth about the circumstances of a disappearance, the progress and results of investigations, and the fate of the disappeared person.

This is not simply a request for compassion. It is a matter of human rights.

The families of Noorullah Tareen and Hanif Pashteen should not have to live indefinitely without knowing where their loved ones are or what has happened to them.

After 341 days, the questions remain unanswered.

The right to truth must be respected.

Where are Noorullah and Hanif?

#EndEnforcedDisappearances #WhereIsPTMDelegation #WhereIsNoorUllahTareen #WhereIsHanifPashteen

[Kathy Gannon @kathygannon]

Israeli Settlers Terrorizing Palestinians Called Out For What They Are: Jewish Terrorists https://t.co/Aof5jBkmQu

[Kathy Gannon @kathygannon]

Horrific attack on Photojournalist @Heidiphotos by Israeli settler terrorists.

[Al Jazeera English @AJEnglish]

Israeli settlers have been filmed beating Washington Post photojournalist Heidi Levine during a pogrom against Palestinian olive farmers. The Washington Post condemned the attack as ‘an outrageous and unwarranted attack’ on a clearly identified journalist.

[Andrew Buncombe @AndrewBuncombe]

👀 'Whatever illusion it might have been, American Dream now a nightmare for much of world' @kathygannon https://t.co/lxfBgW3DM2

[Andrew Buncombe @AndrewBuncombe]

'Whatever illusion it might have been, American Dream now a nightmare for much of world' @kathygannon https://t.co/lxfBgW3DM2

[Kathy Gannon @kathygannon]

Dear @Rajammuzaffar your fight for Kashmir and Kashmiris is inspiring

[Raja Muzaffar @Rajammuzaffar]

🔴 PART 2/3 — FROM AFGHANISTAN TO KASHMIR: THE STRUGGLE FOR TRUTH CONTINUES

As we honor Anja Niedringhaus and Kathy Gannon, we must also remember what journalists continue to face in Pakistan, India, and particularly across the divided State of Jammu and Kashmir.

Threats, intimidation, censorship, legal pressures, communication blackouts, and restrictions on independent reporting raise serious concerns about press freedom.

In Kashmir, where political conflict has affected generations, restrictions on information can leave ordinary people without a voice and the outside world without an accurate understanding of their suffering.

Whether in Srinagar, Muzaffarabad, Islamabad, New Delhi, Kabul, or anywhere else, journalists must be free to investigate, question authority, document human suffering, and report independently without fear of imprisonment, violence, or retaliation.

When journalists are silenced, society loses its witnesses, democracy loses accountability, and humanity loses access to the truth.

This is not about condemning one country or defending another.

It is about applying the same principles of freedom of expression, human dignity, international law, and accountability everywhere.

I believe in freedom for all, hatred toward none. That principle includes freedom of the press, even when journalists report truths that governments or powerful interests would rather not hear.

The protection of journalists should never depend on national boundaries, political loyalties, or ideological differences.

Freedom of the press is not a privilege granted by governments. It is a fundamental pillar of democracy and a safeguard of human dignity.

— Raja Muzaffar
@kathygannon
@anuradha_bhasin
@AljazeraUrdu1
@AJEnglish

#Kashmir #Pakistan #India #Afghanistan #PressFreedom #HumanRights #FreedomOfExpression

[Raja Muzaffar @Rajammuzaffar]

A Tribute to Courage, Sacrifice, and Press Freedom
🔴 PART 1/3 — ONE LOST HER LIFE. ANOTHER SURVIVED TO KEEP THE TRUTH ALIVE.

Two courageous women. Two extraordinary journalists. One unforgettable story of sacrifice, survival, and the price of truth. 💔

On April 4, 2014, while covering Afghanistan’s presidential elections, two Associated Press journalists came under deadly gunfire.

Anja Niedringhaus was killed. Kathy Gannon was critically wounded.

Anja never returned home. Kathy survived to continue speaking, writing, and bearing witness to the truth.

Today, I remember Anja with profound sorrow and gratitude. She gave her life while fulfilling journalism’s highest duty: documenting events the world must never forget.

And I thank God that @kathygannon survived.

Her decades of courageous reporting from Afghanistan remind us that behind every war, every geopolitical rivalry, and every military confrontation are innocent human beings whose suffering must never become invisible.

Kathy recently honored me with generous words about my lifelong commitment to Kashmir and Kashmiris. Her kindness deeply touched my heart.

But today, I want to honor her—and remember Anja, whose sacrifice must never be forgotten.

When bullets target journalists, truth itself comes under attack.
— Raja Muzaffar
@freedomhouse
@AP
#KathyGannon

[Raja Muzaffar @Rajammuzaffar]

🔴 PART 3/3 — REMEMBER ANJA. HONOR KATHY. DEFEND THE FREE PRESS. 🕊️

To journalists everywhere: Your courage matters. Your independence matters. Your lives matter.

Anja Niedringhaus gave her life while pursuing the truth.

Kathy Gannon survived a deadly attack and continues to demonstrate the courage, integrity, and commitment that define responsible journalism.

Her remarkable book, I Is for Infidel: From Holy War to Holy Terror — 18 Years Inside Afghanistan, offers invaluable lessons about the devastating human consequences of war, extremism, and geopolitical rivalries.

In a world increasingly overshadowed by conflict, political manipulation, censorship, and information blackouts, Kathy’s independent voice remains a source of light in the darkness.

Her survival is a blessing. Her experience is a historical treasure. Her continued commitment to truthful journalism is an inspiration to future generations.

Journalism is more than a profession. At its finest, it is a commitment to humanity.

Let us remember Anja with gratitude and sorrow.

Let us honor Kathy with affection, admiration, and respect.

And let us stand beside every journalist who risks personal safety to bring the truth to the world.

I invite my friends, particularly those in the international journalism community, to remember journalists who have sacrificed their lives in pursuit of truth and to stand in solidarity with those who continue reporting under difficult and dangerous conditions.

The true strength of a free society is not measured by how effectively it controls information, but by how courageously it protects the freedom to question power.

❤️ REMEMBER ANJA. HONOR KATHY. DEFEND THE FREE PRESS.

TRUTH MUST LIVE. JOURNALISM MUST REMAIN FREE. HUMANITY MUST NEVER LOOK AWAY.

— Raja Muzaffar

@AP
@AFP
@kathygannon
@anuradha_bhasin
@bbclysedoucet
@AzazSyed
@HamidMirPAK
@bbclysedoucet
@FaisalzUpdates
@Anwardawn
@monakazimshah
@Razarumi
@free_europea
@CPJAsia

#KathyGannon #AnjaNiedringhau #ProtectJournalists

#JournalismIsNotACrime #TruthMatters #FreePress #HumanityFirst #PeaceAndJustice

[Kathy Gannon @kathygannon]

Thank you dear @Rajammuzaffar for all you do to speak strong and loud for Kashmir and Kashmiris.

Just to fix below that I am proudly Canadian , not American journalist

[Raja Muzaffar @Rajammuzaffar]

Global Leadership Must Be Measured by Peace, Not War
@kathygannon
Veteran American journalist Kathy Gannon’s thought-provoking article, “The American Dream: Always an Illusion,” raises questions that transcend any American president, administration, or political party.

Her concerns reflect values shared by ordinary Americans and people worldwide who believe in democracy, human dignity, justice, and peace.

One of her most important observations concerns the global arms industry. When warfare becomes economically profitable, diplomacy and peaceful conflict resolution risk losing the priority they deserve.

America has historically played an important role in international diplomacy, arms control, and efforts to reduce tensions between India and Pakistan. I sincerely hope the United States will continue strengthening this positive tradition of global leadership.

Today, South Asia, the Middle East, and Europe face serious challenges to peace and security. Responsibility cannot rest with America alone.

All five permanent members of the UN Security Council—China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States—must uphold international law consistently and place peace, human dignity, and justice above geopolitical and commercial interests.

The growing influence of defense industries on foreign policy deserves serious reflection across all major powers.

These observations are not directed against President Trump or any American political party. They reflect my belief in America’s democratic traditions and its capacity to contribute positively to international peace.

A Tribute to Kathy Gannon

Kathy’s reflections carry special weight because they arise from decades of courageous reporting in Afghanistan, a country devastated by Cold War rivalries, foreign interventions, extremism, and prolonged conflict.

Her remarkable book, I Is for Infidel: From Holy War to Holy Terror — 18 Years Inside Afghanistan, documents the human consequences of these struggles.

On April 4, 2014, Kathy was seriously wounded in a deadly attack while covering Afghanistan’s presidential elections. Her colleague and close friend, Associated Press photographer Anja Niedringhaus, was tragically killed.

Her courage, survival, and extraordinary journalistic experience provide invaluable lessons for future generations.

Wars are not merely geopolitical contests. They are human tragedies.

The true measure of global leadership is not military strength alone, but the ability to prevent wars, resolve disputes through diplomacy, and protect innocent lives.

We may differ in political opinions, but our shared humanity must remain stronger than those differences.

— Raja Muzaffar

Read Kathy Gannon’s original article: 👇

https://t.co/J0xSiETmP3

#KathyGannon
#GlobalPeace

[Kathy Gannon @kathygannon]

The American Dream, Always an Illusion, Is Now A Nightmare for Much of the World https://t.co/xc1XsTPUbl

[Raja Muzaffar @Rajammuzaffar]

PART 4/4 — Twenty-One Years Later: Gratitude Beyond Borders

Today, I have chosen to share only a small chapter of that remarkable history .

As we commemorate the 21st anniversary of the October 8, 2005 earthquake, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to the American people, the U.S. government, its diplomatic representatives, humanitarian organizations, rescue personnel and military crews who participated in relief efforts.

A Personal Note of Gratitude and Clarification

The humanitarian response to the devastating Kashmir earthquake of October 8, 2005, was truly international.

Many nations, international organizations, humanitarian agencies, and countless volunteers played extraordinary roles in rescuing survivors, delivering relief, and rebuilding shattered communities.

دنیا بھر کے تمام ممالک، امدادی اداروں، پاکستان کے عوام اور دنیا بھر میں آباد پاکستانیوں اور کشمیریوں کی بے مثال خدمات کا اعتراف اور ذکر ایک الگ آرٹیکل میں کر چکا ہوں۔
Pakistan’s people, armed forces, rescue workers, and civil society made immense contributions.
Equally unforgettable was the generosity and tireless commitment of Pakistanis and Kashmiris living abroad, who mobilized resources, raised funds, and stood beside their people in their darkest hour.

Today, I have chosen to share only a small chapter of that remarkable history — my personal experiences, firsthand observations, and the compassion and assistance extended by my American friends, particularly Lisa Curtis, and others who responded to our appeals.

This personal remembrance does not diminish the invaluable contributions of countless others. Their sacrifices, generosity, and humanitarian service deserve equal recognition and lasting gratitude.

The earthquake brought unimaginable suffering, but humanity rose above borders, nationalities, and political differences.

To everyone who helped Kashmir in 2005: Thank you. We remember. We shall never forget.

I also remember with appreciation Pakistani and international journalists who helped bring Kashmir’s suffering to the world’s attention, including
@kathygannon
Kathy Gannon, whose reporting and commitment to telling human stories deserve recognition.

My gratitude extends equally to Pakistan’s , Turkey’s rescue workers, local volunteers, international relief teams and ordinary citizens from across the world who responded with extraordinary generosity.

The earthquake destroyed homes, schools, hospitals and entire neighborhoods. But it also revealed something powerful: compassion can cross borders even when politics divides nations.

Today, I remember those we lost, honor those who survived, and thank those who helped rebuild shattered lives.

Kashmir will never forget October 8, 2005. Nor should we ever forget the hands that reached out to help.

With remembrance and personal gratitude,

Raja Muzaffar
Dallas, Texas, USA
October 8, 2026

#KashmirEarthquak

[Kathy Gannon @kathygannon]

Letter from Islamabad aka Container City
Army of railway containers on alert to protect Islamabad ___ most often from disgruntled protesters
https://t.co/RbF3ILGpQb

[Kathy Gannon @kathygannon]

Letter from Islamabad aka Container City https://t.co/RbF3ILGpQb

[Samantha Leaning @samanthaleaning]

MISSING, NOT FORGOTTEN - 29th September 2026 - Day 322

322 days without answers.

Families of people subjected to enforced disappearance have the right to know the truth about what happened to them and where they are.

Silence does not remove that right.

322 days later, that right remains.

Where are Noorullah Tareen and Hanif Pashteen?

#WhereIsPTMDelegation #EndEnforcedDisappearances
#WhereIsNoorUllahTareen
#WhereIsHanifPashteen

[Pakistan TV Digital @PakistanTVcom]

Afghanistan government has no democratic process, deep internal divisions and no diplomatic recognition: Canadian journalist Cathy Gannon's exclusive interview with Pakistan TV Digital | Across the Line with @sfaisalshakeel

@kathygannon

[Lisa Van Dusen @Lisa_VanDusen]

Our @policy_mag series 'On Being Canadian' 🇨🇦 https://t.co/LiobIQjR32
With many thanks to all the writers who've so generously shared their stories:
@goldyhyder
@SenatorWanda
@Thomas_dAquino
Baltej Singh Dhillon
@HowardFremeth
@jdmstewart1
Gina Cody
@DonaldColinRob1
@FlavioVolpe1
Deep Saini
@kathygannon
@danielbeland
Jeremy Kinsman
@SusanBonner
@SenBoehm
@robinvsears
Graham Fraser
@awilsonsmith
@ProsaicPKent
@GuyLepage14
Whit Fraser
@anilwasif
@StackhouseJohn
@DerekNighbor
@ElizabethMay
@ChrisLaBossiere
@Lisa_VanDusen

#cdnpoli #Canada 🇨🇦